Plan a few days ahead
Most prep is moving things out of the way: cabinet contents, wall art, furniture along plumbing walls, and anything stored near the attic hatch or water heater. Doing it a room at a time over a few evenings is easier than rushing the morning work starts.
Ask your contractor which rooms they will open first and whether anything on this list does not apply to your house.
Room by room
| Room | Clear | Protect |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchen | Sink base cabinet, area behind refrigerator | Counters near sink |
| Bathrooms | Vanities, medicine cabinets, shower caddies | Mirrors and tile |
| Laundry | Shelves above and around washer box | Appliances |
| Hallways | Furniture, rugs, wall hangings | Floors along the route |
| Garage | Path to water heater, main valve and attic hatch | Cars and stored items |
| Closets | Any closet sharing a plumbing wall | Clothing |
Household plan
- Store drinking and washing water for planned shutoffs.
- Arrange pets to stay secured away from open doors and cut walls.
- Plan meals for days when the kitchen sink is disconnected.
- Agree on working hours and a daily check-in.
- Clear driveway or street space for the crew if asked.
- Move valuables and fragile items out of work rooms.
Suggested prep timing
- One week before
- Confirm permit status, start date and the first rooms to be opened.
- A few days before
- Empty cabinets and closets on plumbing walls.
- Day before
- Clear attic and water heater access; fill water containers.
- Morning of
- Secure pets and walk the plan with the lead installer.
Common questions
Do I need to empty the attic?
Usually just clear a path at the hatch and anything stored over plumbing routes. Ask the contractor.
Should I take down window coverings?
Only if they are near a wall that will be opened. Ask for the opening plan.
Will the crew move furniture?
Policies differ. Ask in advance, and move fragile or valuable pieces yourself.
General information for Yorba Linda, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.